A brief history...

Great Wyrley Community Band was formed in January 2000 by Lawrence Smallwood (former Head of Music at Great Wyrley  High School), and Vaughan Smith (Musical Director and ex pupil from Great Wyrley High School).

In the November of 1999, Vaughan and Lawrence were called upon at the last minute to see if they could muster up a band to play at the Annual 'Carols & Roast' evening at St. Mark's Church, Great Wyrley. This was a traditional Christmas Concert performed by Great Wyrley High School Band each year since the early 1970's. But due to illness, the occasion found itself with no band.

Former High School Band members who were still around came to the rescue, and word soon escalated that a salvage band from some 12 years ago had come together again for the first time. It was all on the spur-of-the-moment but a successful nights entertainment had been accomplished.

The reunion of senior players sparked the idea of setting up an adult band for members of the local community. A meeting was held to experiment the possibilities of creating such a band. The meeting, with the invaluable help of Head Teacher John Large, proved favourable and so Great Wyrley Community Band was formed in January 2000 by Vaughan Smith and Lawrence Smallwood.

Over time, many musicians from all over the midlands have joined us. Through hard work and dedication Great Wyrley Community Band has shown to be a great success. Since those early days the band has improved dramatically, and increased in number. As part of our constitution, we have encouraged young players from local schools, including Great Wyrley Performing Arts High School, to develop their abilities with us (many going on to university but still returning to play with us where possible) and adult players of all ages from the wider community have also joined us.

Great Wyrley Community Band lives on today in Vaughan Smith's hands, and through his encouragement and hard efforts, the Band has gone from strength to strength. The band has gained a fantastic reputation for high standards, challenging pieces, and an excellent source of entertainment.

If you are interested in joining the band or require further information about us please click here